I've got 3 wood handles that I pilfered from my WGA to use on my 22".
They're in really nice shape but don't have much of a finish on them.
I'll like to get them nice and shiny and protected. Maybe even darken them up a bit.
I have had the exact same issue.
I applied some semi-transparent stain (mahogany color). The handles were thirsty for stain, so I went with 2 coats.
Then applied spar varnish "satin", as I thought that semi-gloss, and gloss would be a bit too shiny.
They look real nice now. Sorry, no pics.